A major Trae Young trade will reshape the future of two Eastern Conference franchises.
The Atlanta Hawks are trading four-time All Star Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in exchange for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, sources told ESPN.
The deal ends Young’s seven-plus seasons as the face of the Hawks and sends the 27-year-old guard to what ESPN said was his preferred destination.
Washington leadership believes Young can serve as a foundation as the franchise continues to rebuild, while Atlanta gains financial flexibility and experienced leadership in McCollum.
Hawks coach Quin Snyder discussed the situation after Wednesday’s win over New Orleans, with the trade still pending league approval.
“I know you all have questions for me that I can’t talk about or answer at this time,” Snyder said.
Young’s departure allows Atlanta to transition to a younger core while opening up future cap space.
He leaves as the Hawks’ all-time leader in assists and three-pointers after leading the team to three playoff appearances, including an Eastern Conference final appearance in 2021.
Teammate Mouhamed Gueye praised Young after the news became public.
“That’s TY. That’s Trae Young,” Gueye said. “When I first got here, he was one of the first guys to text me, welcome me to the city and give me a lot of advice. Obviously, playing with Trae, as a big player, is a dream come true. I love him as a man, I love him as a teammate. … An Atlanta legend.”
The Wizards are expected to evaluate Young’s health upon arrival and are not planning any immediate expansion talks, according to ESPN.
